It was only recently that designer Krishna Murthy of handbag label, Kris Designs, took over the reins at South Bengaluru boutique, Basava, and he’s already making his presence felt. This weekend, he ropes in Meera Curram, a textile designer and artist to curate a pop-up of garments made from handwoven fabrics and handmade accessories. “The store is going through a complete revamp. One of Kris’s aims is to use it as a platform for brands that deserve to be showcased. So we discussed the idea and decided to focus on labels and designers who are working closely with weaving and artisan communities,” explains Meera.
Intending to spotlight labels that are a bit atypical with an interesting story to tell, Meera has put together a list of names that include WomenWeave, Studio Syu, Love Handles & Co, Punarjeevana, Toile Indienne and Indian Sparrow. “Most of these brands will be coming to Bengaluru for the first time,” she shares. While at Kolkata-based Studio Syu hand block prints take on contem-porary forms, Love Handles & Co, is not necessarily for plus size women, but for real women with real curves. Think dresses, tunics, kurtas and t-shirts that allow the wearer to be comfortable but stylish at the same time.
Toile Indienne, an award winning label, will bring its range of textiles, fabrics and silk scarves that feature India’s folk tales and culture through tasteful digital prints. If you’re looking to stock up on saris, look no further than Punarjeevana by Hemalatha Jain. The eco-conscious label will present some of their latest patteda anchu saris in a contemporary colour palette from northern Karnataka. WomenWeave, the renowned charitable trust from Madhya Pradesh, will showcase some of its handwoven saris made from organic cotton and 100 per cent natural dyes.
While similar pop-ups curated by Meera are expected to be a regular feature at Basava, she also has her hands full with the release of her coffee table book, which documents the work of kalamkari artisans. “It is more like a resource book and has lots of information on the craft,” she reveals. In addition, she is in the process of setting up a printing studio, expected to be functional in two months.
Rs.1,500 upwards. September 7-9. At Kanakapura Road, Basavanagudi